Ethernet over copper (also known as EoC) is a form of Ethernet in the first mile connection that uses twisted copper telephone wire. It uses the same RJ-45 jack connection that conventional Ethernet cables use. While the connection on an Ethernet over copper cable is similar to that of a conventional Ethernet cable, the physical layers used for Ethernet over copper are different from the physical layers used for conventional Ethernet, so special adapters are required for Ethernet over copper; the Ethernet over copper connection cannot be plugged into a conventional Ethernet port on a switch, router, or computer.
EoC is usually delivered as an “internet facing” service. EoC can also be delivered other ways. It can interface with private networking (i.e., an existing WAN, MPLS, or VPN network). Can also support SIP, PRI, analog, and hosted PBX voice services as well.
As Ethernet over copper cabling is made up of twisted telephone wire, it is affordable. This consistency of Ethernet between the service provider core and the customer network reduces overhead, increasing performance & providing a more consistent connection to the user.